The first-ever co-operative education awards night took place recently at KPU Richmond recognizing community partners of co-op education at KPU.
Canada Revenue Agency was presented with the Co-op Employer of the Year Award, while Canada Border Service Agency, KPU Information Technology, Options Community Services Society, Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, and Sierra Wireless received KPU’s Co-op Appreciation Awards.
Award winners were selected for their numerous contributions to the co-op program, including their long-standing partnerships with KPU, the high number of postings they provided, and the variety of postings they offered for multiple co-op supported programs.
Co-operative education works with employers to develop and create program-related work experiences for students in distinct disciplines. By alternating between study and work semesters, students learn to apply the skills and knowledge acquired from their on-campus courses to real life work experiences.
“Our students are extremely fortunate to gain practical work experience while earning a competitive wage from some of the top employers in our community,” said Shawn Erickson, director of co-operative education and career services. “Through the co-op placement, students sample various industries within their chosen career and obtain valuable soft skills and job search techniques to support their success in securing a job before and after completing their program.”
Salehah Hakik, a criminology student, spoke at the awards about her co-op placement with Options Community Services Society, a placement that turned into a part-time job while she continues her studies.
“I really enjoyed my first work term with Options,” said Hakik. “It was such a great fit, I ended up staying on and working for them. I can’t wait for my next work term, which is with the RCMP.”
To learn more about KPU’s co-operative education program, visit kpu.ca/co-op.
Story by Nadine Wolitski
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